Bodø Braces for Norway“>Storm: Severe Winds and Heavy Snow Expected
Residents of Bodø, located in the Nordland county of Norway, are bracing for a significant storm that is expected to bring record-breaking winds and heavy snowfall. According to meteorologist Sigrid Auganæs, the MET office has recorded sustained winds of up to 26.2 meters per second (around 94 km/h) in the last six hours. "It’s going to be very windy in Troms as well," Auganæs said. "Gale-force winds are expected along the coast, with several locations experiencing blizzard conditions."
The MET office has issued an orange warning for snow in the counties of Nordland and Troms, with heavy snowfall expected in the coming days. Up to 60 cm of snow is forecasted for the Nord-Helgeland and Salten regions.
As the storm sweeps in, close to 4,000 households in Bodø are currently without power, according to Arva’s power map. The city’s webcam shows large waves crashing into the harbor.
Bodø’s Mayor, Odd Emil Ingebrigtsen (H), downplays the storm, stating, "It’s nothing out of the ordinary for winter in Bodø. We’re well used to this."
Bane Nor reports increased preparedness on the Nordlandsbanen and Ofotbanen, but no trains have been suspended as of yet. The local police have reported a tree blocking the Rønvikveien and the Tverlandsbrua bridge closure due to strong winds.
Road conditions are-reportedly poor, with reduced visibility and rotor snow creating hazardous driving conditions. Several roads, including E6 over Saltfjellet, Europavei 12, and parts of Riksvei 77, are closed, with more local roads and ferry connections expected to follow.
The storm is also affecting air travel, with several flights to and from Bodø airport delayed or canceled. Avinor, the company that operates Norwegian airports, warns of challenging conditions throughout the day and advises travelers to stay updated on their flight’s status.
As the storm continues, VG encourages readers to share their experiences and any relevant photos or videos with us at [email protected].
